It’s only a few days away from Armed Forces day and as the line-up is revealed, there is plenty to look forward to. 200,000 people came to Cleethorpes for last year’s national event which took place over three days. This year’s event will also take place over three days and there’s a lot for people to do and see in that time. This will include a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, the air sea rescue team, a massive fireworks display, hot air balloons and other flying displays. There will also be stalls and interactive displays that the entire family will be able to enjoy.
The mayor of North East Lincolnshire, Ron Shepherd was at the flag-raising ceremony and he said that the day was a very important one on their calendar and it was a legacy that had to be continued. This event, he said, was how those who defended the realm could be celebrated and honoured and this didn’t just mean the military but all those who worked to ensure the nation’s security. He continued by saying that he believed that people would once again turn up to show their support during the occasion and that once again Cleethorpes would be on the map. He also stated that he was hoping the days would be warm and that the town’s residents would turn up in large numbers because the Armed Forces Day had something for everyone and it was important to ensure that the youth are also involved.
On Friday, 30th, the celebrations will start with trade stands opening at noon and from six in the evening to 10 pm, there will be local bands and other forms of entertainment at the Remembrance Gate. The first day will end with a fireworks display at 10.25pm.
The charity areas and stalls will be opening to the public at 10 in the morning before the Artiez Glee Club children’s choir performance at noon which will be taking place at the Remembrance Gate. At 1 pm, the parade gun will fire to mark the start of the parade which will start from Market Street and pass through Cambridge Street before going to Knoll Street. The mayor and other dignitaries will address the people at 2 pm before the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Display at 2.15pm. There will be other forms of entertainment for the rest of the day and also on Sunday including flying displays.